MATI CITY, DAVAO ORIENTAL — Police arrested a 36-year-old man allegedly linked to the attempted rape of a 14-year-old Grade 9 student near the Techno Park area in Mati City, Davao Oriental, after a hot-pursuit operation on Friday night, August 28, 2026.
The suspect, identified by police as Ryan Belbelone, also known by the alias “Ryan,” was apprehended shortly after 8:10 p.m. in Purok Tamia 2, Barangay Don Martin Marundan, Mati City.
Police said the arrest followed the reported attempted sexual assault involving the minor the previous evening near the Techno Park area. The incident prompted a hot-pursuit operation as authorities worked to identify and locate the person allegedly responsible.
According to the Mati City Police Station, the suspect eventually voluntarily surrendered to Barangay Kagawad Jannel L. Sermonda, after which police proceeded to the area and brought him together with the female victim for identification.
After authorities confirmed his identity, the suspect was placed under arrest. Police said he was informed of his constitutional rights in a language he understood.
Suspected shabu recovered
Following the lawful arrest, police recovered from the suspect approximately 6.07 grams of suspected shabu, with a reported standard drug price of about ₱41,276.
Other items reportedly recovered were a sky-blue face towel and a green disposable lighter.
Police also reported the recovery of a brass knuckle, which authorities said was allegedly used during the assault against the minor.
The confiscated items were reportedly marked and inventoried at the place of operation in the presence of witnesses and the suspect, in accordance with established procedures.
The drug seizure adds a separate dimension to the case, with the suspect potentially facing charges related to possession of illegal drugs aside from the appropriate complaint arising from the alleged attempted rape.
Victim escaped and sought help
The arrest comes a day after the minor reportedly escaped from the alleged assault and sought assistance after the incident near the Techno Park area on August 27.
Initial information indicated that the student sustained injuries during the incident, prompting authorities to launch an immediate investigation and hot-pursuit operation.
The case also prompted an appeal for information and CCTV footage from residents and establishments in areas that could help investigators trace the movements of the person allegedly involved.
Mati City Mayor Mayo Almario had earlier offered a ₱100,000 reward for information that could lead to the identification and apprehension of the person responsible for the incident.
Authorities had likewise urged the public to avoid spreading unverified names, photographs and accusations online, particularly because the alleged victim is a minor and the investigation was still underway at the time.
With the arrest of Belbelone, investigators are expected to further establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged attempted rape, examine the evidence recovered during the operation, and determine the appropriate criminal complaints to be filed.
Suspect in police custody
Belbelone is now under the custody of the Mati City Police Station for proper disposition and the filing of appropriate charges.
The allegations against him remain subject to the ongoing investigation and judicial process. His arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt, and he remains entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty in court.